Skoda India has released another teaser of the upcoming Kushaq facelift. The short teaser confirmed a couple of exterior tweaks for the SUV, which is set for a mid-lifecycle refresh. First launched in 2021, the Kushaq rivals models such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, Honda Elevate and Tata Sierra.
- Kushaq facelift to get minor exterior changes at front and rear
- Expected feature additions include Level 2 ADAS and panoramic sunroof
- Kushaq 1.0 TSI could get an 8AT unit sometime later next year
Skoda Kushaq facelift exterior design
Connected headlights, illuminated ‘SKODA’ wordmark
Up front, the new Kushaq will get refreshed headlights and daytime running lamps (DRLs), bridged by segmented light elements. Also new is the design of the front grille and the bumper, which features an angular silver trim. The brand’s winged-arrow logo continues to be present on the bonnet; however, at the back, an illuminated ‘SKODA’ wordmark is new, flanked by individual lights, just like the front.
Skoda Kushaq facelift interior and features
Panoramic sunroof and rear-seat massage function expected
While the cabin has not yet been revealed, the Kushaq facelift is expected to receive a longer equipment list to stay competitive. Spy images indicate that it will get a panoramic sunroof on higher trims. The Kushaq facelift is also likely to get a segment-first massage function for the rear seats, new graphics for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen, and rear disc brakes for 1.5 TSI variants. Even the air-conditioning system is expected to receive updates to improve it over the current model.
Skoda Kushaq facelift ADAS and safety upgrades
Level 2 ADAS
Skoda has already indicated that Level 2 ADAS will be introduced step-by-step with facelifts across its models based on the MQB-A0-IN platform. For reference, most segment competitors already offer an ADAS suite; some of them are the new Tata Sierra, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, Honda Elevate and MG Astor. A 360-degree camera is also expected to be added.
Skoda Kushaq facelift engines and gearbox options
Same engine and gearbox options, new 8-speed AT likely to come later
The facelifted Kushaq is expected to continue with the current engine options: the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol (115hp, 178Nm) and the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (150hp, 250Nm). The existing gearbox options are also likely to remain at launch: 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque converter automatic for the 1.0-litre unit and 7-speed DSG for the larger mill.
However, Skoda is also expected to introduce a new localised 8-speed torque-converter automatic for the 1.0-litre engine at a later stage, which could eventually replace the current 6-speed unit. The 8-speed transmission should boost fuel efficiency by providing closer-ratio steps between gears, resulting in smoother transitions and less fuel wastage during both acceleration and deceleration. It will also help Skoda meet the stricter upcoming CAFE 3 norms.
Uday Singh
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